Microsoft presented the new version of the CE operating system, Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R2, on 15 November 2007 in Japan. "Web Services on Devices (WSD)" is one of the highlights of version Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R2.

The operating system recognises connected devices automatically via WSD and integrates them in the overall system. As Windows Embedded Gold Partner, Beckhoff is the development partner for the application and the supplier of the control equipment.

Microsoft presented the new version of the CE operating system using an application from the field of home automation as an example. The presentation was made available worldwide as a "live" webcast.

"Web Services on Devices" is one of the technological innovations in version Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R2. It implements the international standard "Devices profile for Web Services (DPWS)". The operating system recognises connected devices automatically via WSD and integrates them in the overall system.

Microsoft demonstrated this new technology using a scenario from the field of home automation, because it is precisely in this field that Microsoft sees a great potential for the use of WSD.

Microsoft chose its Gold Partner Beckhoff as development partner due to their vast experience in the field of PC-based control technology and also building and home automation.

Like USB, WSD is a plug-and-play technology. Consumer devices such as printers, scanners, mobile telephones, organisers, external hard disks or MP3 players are connected via USB to the PC, which then recognises and operates them.

Automatic recognition takes place by means of exchanging so-called "profiles" for these devices. In WSD, Microsoft has expanded plug-and-play technology to the field of "Ethernet-based devices". Microsoft's intention here is to open up the field of home automation.

An important constituent of the presentation was the Beckhoff presenter for demonstrating the home automation scenario, in which four dimmable lamps and a venetian blind are controlled via a Beckhoff CX1020 Embedded PC with Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R2 as the operating system.

Together with a weather station and proximity sensors, the lamps and the venetian blind are recognised automatically by the operating system and integrated in the system. The Embedded PC and the end devices are integrated via WSD. To this end, the new "Web Services on Device"

Technology is integrated in all components by means of implementing profiles based on the international standard "Device Profile for Web Services".

All profiles are available on the CX1020 Embedded PC. Thanks to the involvement of Beckhoff in the development of the application, PCs and components by Beckhoff are capable of running with WSD technologies at an early stage.

Beckhoff has been awarded the status of Gold Partner by Microsoft within the context of the Windows Embedded Partner programme. Only three companies in Germany and a total of 14 in Europe possess Gold status.

A crucial factor in the selection of Beckhoff was their above-average know-how in the field of embedded technology. In addition, Beckhoff provides a complete construction kit for automation technology, including its own state-of-the-art motherboards.

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